Ergonomic mouse device with multi-programmable buttons

ABSTRACT

Pointing devices such as computer mouse are commonly used for making selections on computer screens. However, prolong or frequent use of such pointing devices might result in users suffering from repetitive stress disorder. Further, due to the widespread use of personal computers (PC), this problem is made more even pronounced. In addition, users increasingly require additional buttons to be provided on the computer mouse for purposes such as PC gaming. Although device manufacturers have started building more buttons on existing computer mice, the buttons are typically not ergonomically positioned. An embodiment of the invention describes an ergonomic input device with multi-programmable buttons.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation of and claims the benefit to U.S.application Ser. No. 12/302,991, having a 35 U.S.C. §371 date of Jun.18, 2010, which is a national phase entry of PCT application numberPCT/SG2007/000411 filed on Nov. 30, 2007, both of which are expresslyincorporated by reference herein in its entirety.

FIELD OF INVENTION

The invention relates generally to human interface devices forcomputers. In particular, the invention relates to an ergonomic mousedevice with multi-programmable buttons.

BACKGROUND

Pointing devices such as computer mouse are commonly used, for example,to control cursor movement displayed on a computer screen for makingselections on a graphical user interface (GUI). The use of pointingdevices often involves highly repetitive hand and finger movements andpositions. Some forms of repetitive stress disorder such as the carpaltunnel syndrome (CTS) may be attributed to frequent use of pointingdevices, particularly where awkward and stressful movements and/orpositions are involved. Hence, pointing devices having configurationsthat force the wrist, hand and fingers of a user to assume awkward andstressful positions and/or movements are undesirable.

Additionally, the problem of users suffering from repetitive stressdisorder due to use of pointing devices is even more pronounced intoday's environment, where the deployment of personal computers (PCs)for different purposes ranging from productivity work to gaming ishighly ubiquitous, as compared to the past. Notably, PC gaming isgaining enormous popularity worldwide due to the emergence of theInternet as a platform for allowing gamers to easily interact with oneanother through online gaming. PC games being played online normallybelong to genres ranging from first person shooter (FPS) games tomassive multiplayer online role player games (MMORPGs). Typically,pointing devices, such as the computer mouse, are used together withkeyboards as means for enabling users to interact with the PC games.

Due to rise in popularity of PC gaming, users require more buttons thanever before to be provided on the computer mouse for activatingadditional functionalities and features of the PC games “on-the-fly”.Conventionally, computer mouse are typically pre-built with one or twobuttons. However, to take advantage of macro “shortcut” functionsprovided by software and PC games, device manufacturers have beenbuilding additional buttons onto the computer mouse such as locating theadditional buttons on the lateral sides of the left and right mousebuttons of the computer mouse. Due to the awkward positioning of theadditional buttons fitted to conform to the shape of the computer mouse,the additional buttons are thus not easily accessible by the users.

Hence, in view of the foregoing problems, there affirms a need for adevice with buttons that are ergonomically positioned thereon.

SUMMARY

Embodiments of the invention disclosed herein provide an ergonomic inputdevice with multi-programmable buttons.

In accordance with a first aspect of the invention, there is disclosedan input device for communicating with a processor-based device. Theinput device comprises a circuitry, a first displacement transducer, abody and a plurality of actuators. The first displacement transducer iscoupled to the circuitry for transducing detected displacement intodisplacement signals, the circuitry for communicating the displacementsignals to the processor-based device for manipulating an object on theprocessor-based device. The body houses the circuitry and the firstdisplacement transducer, the body having a base for being supported on asurface when in use and a support surface outwardly opposing the base,at least a portion of the support surface for supporting the mid-palm ofthe user when in use, the body having a depressible key formed on thesupport surface. The plurality of actuators formed on the supportsurface of the body and positioned along the periphery of thedepressible key, the plurality of actuators being coupled to thecircuitry. Further, the plurality of actuators is operable forgenerating actuating signals detectable by the circuitry, the actuatingsignals being communicable to the processor-based device by thecircuitry for operating a function on the processor-based device.

In accordance with a second aspect of the invention, there is disclosedan input device for communicating with a processor-based device. Theinput device comprises a circuitry, a first displacement transducer, abody, a receptacle and an actuator module. The first displacementtransducer is coupled to the circuitry for transducing detecteddisplacement into displacement signals, the circuitry for communicatingthe displacement signals to the processor-based device for manipulatingan object on the processor-based device. The body houses the circuitryand the first displacement transducer, the body having a base for beingsupported on a surface when in use and a support surface outwardlyopposing the base, at least a portion of the support surface forsupporting the mid-palm of the user when in use, the body having adepressible key formed on the support surface. The receptacle is formedin the support surface of the body and positioned along the periphery ofthe depressible key, the receptacle having electrical contacts formedtherein and coupled to the circuitry. The actuator module comprises aplurality of actuators, the actuator module being receivable into thereceptacle. Further, the plurality of actuators of the actuator moduleis operable for generating actuating signals detectable by the circuitryvia the electrical contacts, the actuating signals being communicable tothe processor-based device by the circuitry for operating a function onthe processor-based device.

In accordance with a third aspect of the invention, there is disclosedan input device for communicating with a processor-based device. Theinput device comprises a circuitry, a first displacement transducer, abody and a receptacle. The first displacement transducer is coupled tothe circuitry for transducing detected displacement into displacementsignals, the circuitry for communicating the displacement signals to theprocessor-based device. The body houses the circuitry and the firstdisplacement transducer, the body having a base for being supported on asurface when in use and a support surface outwardly opposing the base,at least a portion of the support surface for supporting the mid-palm ofthe user when in use. The receptacle is formed in the support surface ofthe body, the receptacle having electrical contacts formed therein andcoupled to the circuitry, the receptacle for receiving an actuatormodule thereinto, the actuator module comprising at least one actuator.When the actuator module is received in the receptacle, the at least oneactuator of the actuator module is operable for generating actuatingsignals detectable by the circuitry via the electrical contacts, theactuating signals being communicable to the processor-based device bythe circuitry for operating a function on the processor-based device.

In accordance with a fourth aspect of the invention, there is disclosedan input device for communicating with a processor-based device. Theinput device comprises a circuitry, a body and a receptacle. The bodyhouses the circuitry, the body having a base for being supported on asurface when in use and a support surface outwardly opposing the base,at least a portion of the support surface for supporting the mid-palm ofthe user when in use. The receptacle is formed in the support surface ofthe body, the receptacle having electrical contacts formed therein andcoupled to the circuitry, the receptacle for receiving an actuatormodule thereinto, the actuator module comprising at least one actuator.When the actuator module is received in the receptacle, the at least oneactuator of the actuator module is operable for generating actuatingsignals detectable by the circuitry via the electrical contacts, theactuating signals being communicable to the processor-based device bythe circuitry for operating a function on the processor-based device.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Embodiments of the invention are disclosed hereinafter with reference tothe drawings, in which:

FIG. 1 is a top plan view of an input device in accordance with a firstembodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 2 is a left side elevational view of the input device of FIG. 1;

FIG. 3 is a bottom plan view of the input device of FIG. 1;

FIG. 4 shows a graphical format of a software application used inconjunction for configuring the input device of FIG. 1;

FIG. 5 is a top plan view of an input device in accordance with a secondembodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 6 is a perspective view of the input device of FIG. 5;

FIG. 7 is a rear elevational view of the input device of FIG. 5;

FIG. 8 is a right side elevational view of the input device of FIG. 5;

FIG. 9 is a top plan view of an input device in accordance with a thirdembodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 10 is a perspective view of the input device of FIG. 9;

FIG. 11 is a rear elevational view of the input device of FIG. 9; and

FIG. 12 is a right side elevational view of the input device of FIG. 9.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

An ergonomic input device with multi-programmable buttons is describedhereinafter for addressing the foregoing problems.

For purposes of brevity and clarity, the description of the invention islimited hereinafter to applications related to ergonomic input devices.This however does not preclude various embodiments of the invention fromother applications that require similar operating performance. Thefundamental operational and functional principles of the embodiments ofthe invention are common throughout the various embodiments.

Exemplary embodiments of the invention described hereinafter are inaccordance with FIGS. 1 to 12 of the drawings, in which like elementsare numbered with like reference numerals.

FIGS. 1 to 3 show an ergonomic input device 100 configured in accordanceto an embodiment of the invention. The input device 100 is preferably acomputer mouse for use together with a computer 102. The input device100 comprises a body 104 with an upper surface 106. Three independentlyoperated actuators are mounted on the body 104, including a primary key108, a secondary key 110 and a scrolling wheel 112. The primary key 108,the secondary key 110 and the scrolling wheel 112 are typical actuatorsof a conventional computer mouse. Alternatively, the input device 100comprises at least one of the primary key 108, the secondary key 110 andthe scrolling wheel 112. Additionally, the input device 100 furthercomprises a first actuator module 114, a second actuator module 116 anda third actuator module 118 mounted on the body 104. Each of the firstactuator module 114, the second actuator module 116 and the thirdactuator module 118 comprises one of a single button, a touch sensor, aslider and a switch. Preferably, each of the first actuator module 114,the second actuator module 116 and the third actuator module 118comprises a plurality of buttons. The first actuator module 114 and thesecond actuator module 116 are mounted on the upper surface 104,proximal to the primary key 108. The third actuator module 118 ispreferably mounted on a side surface of the body 104 as shown in FIG. 1and FIG. 2.

When a user depresses or “clicks” either the primary key 108 orsecondary key 110, a switching function is executed. Specifically,depressing either one of the primary key 108 or secondary key 110changes an associated switch state and generates a signal that isconveyed via conductors in a cord 120 to the computer 102. One end ofthe cord 120 is anchored inside the body 104 and extends from an end 122of the input device 100 while the other end of the cord 120 is coupledto the computer 102.

The computer 102 may have a multitude of designs and comprises a visualdisplay device 124. The visual display device 124, which may be acathode ray tube-type, active matrix display-type or other suitabledevice, can display a cursor (or pointer) 126, along with text and othergraphical information. The computer 102 further comprises memory 128, aprocessor 130 and a keyboard 132.

The scroll wheel 112 is partially exposed from the body 104 to allowinteraction therewith by the user. In particular, the scroll wheel 112is supported on an axle that resides within the body 104 of the inputdevice 100. The axle is carried by spaced-apart axle supports. The axlesupports are configured to allow one end of the axle to move in adirection that is generally perpendicular to the axis of rotation of thescroll wheel 112, so that that the scroll wheel 112 is depressible bythe user for activating a switch (not shown). The switch that isactivated as a result of depression of the scroll wheel 112 thenprovides a switching signal. A spring is also preferably containedwithin the body 104 and arranged to provide resiliency againstdepression of the scroll wheel 112. In addition, an optical encoder (notshown) may be positioned on the axle for rotation with the scroll wheel112. A light source and a light sensor is mounted within the inputdevice 100 so as to sense the motion of the optical encoder to therebyprovide a positioning signal with respect to the scroll wheel 112. Adetent mechanism is also provided on the axle to provide a segmentedfeel to the rotation of the scroll wheel 112. The positioning andswitching signals are conveyed via the cable 120 to the computer 102 foreffecting changes on the visual display device 124, such as textscrolling.

Alternatively, instead of using the scroll wheel 112, other displacementtransducer means such as a scroll ball, a tactile sensor or an opticalsensor is usable in place of the scroll wheel 112 as well known topersons skilled in the art.

The first actuator module 114, the second actuator module 116 and thethird actuator module 118, for example, are for actuating “shortcut”functions such as “page forward” or “page backward” used for websurfing. The “shortcut” functions are assignable to any buttons of thefirst actuator module 114, the second actuator module 116 and the thirdactuator module 118. The user then actuates a particular button toactivate the corresponding “shortcut” function assigned thereto. Hence,as opposed to using the buttons on the keyboard 132 for activating the“shortcut” functions in a conventional manner, the user uses the firstactuator module 114, the second actuator module 116 and the thirdactuator module 118 instead. Conventionally, the “shortcut” functionstypically are assigned to and actuated using function keys of thekeyboard 132 such as the “F1”, “F3” or “F5” keys. Alternatively, thefirst actuator module 114, the second actuator module 116 and the thirdactuator module 118 are configurable for assigning gaming “shortcut”functions, such as “shoot”, “jump” or “crouch” thereto. This thenprovides the user with quicker access to the various game playingfunctions when playing the PC games and frees the user from positioninghis hands in an awkward manner on the keyboard 132 for accessing thebuttons assigned with the corresponding game playing functions.

A software application 400, as shown in FIG. 4, is provided forassigning the “shortcut” functions to any buttons of the first actuatormodule 114, the second actuator module 116 and the third actuator module118. A unique code corresponding to the actuation of a button foractivating a “shortcut” function is definable by the user through use ofthe software application 400. The unique code is stored under a“shortcut” profile in the storage memory (not shown) provided within theinput device 100. The storage memory is preferably a semiconductormemory device such as static random access memory (SRAM) or flashmemory. Alternatively, the “shortcut” profile is stored on the computer102. Additionally, the unique code can be associated with a softwareapplication provided on the computer 102. Whenever the computer 102detects a system signal corresponding to the unique code, the associatedsoftware application is loaded into memory 128, executed by the computer102 and shown to the user on the visual display device 124.

The software application 400, when executed by the user provides therespective options: a button option, a launch-application option and aload-“shortcut”-profile option respectively. The button option specifiesa button of one of the first actuator module 114, the second actuatormodule 116 and the third actuator module 118 to be configured. Thelaunch-application option allows the user to define an associatedsoftware application to be executed by the computer 102 upon detectionof the unique code corresponding to the actuation of the buttonconfigured previously using the button option. Theload-“shortcut”-profile option enables the user to determine if the“shortcut” profile is retrieved by the computer 102 from the inputdevice 100 and preloaded into memory 128 upon startup of the computer102. Alternatively, if the “shortcut” profile is stored on the computer102, the load-“shortcut”-profile option then enables the user todetermine if the “shortcut” profile is preloaded into memory 128 uponstartup of the computer 102.

Alternatively, the first actuator module 114, the second actuator module116 and the third actuator module 118 are also configurable in that eachof the first actuator module 114, the second actuator module 116 and thethird actuator module 118 is mountable on a removable module. Theremovable module is attached to the body 104 via receptacles formed inthe body 104 and attached thereto by using securing means such asinterlocking latches. In addition, the removable module is alsodetachable from the body 104 and replaceable with another module such asa button-less module. The replaceable feature of the first actuatormodule 114, the second actuator module 116 and the third actuator module118 enables the user to configure the input device 100 to be adapted fordifferent users' hand sizes or usage preferences. In addition, theremovable module contains electrical connectors for connecting to anelectrical interface formed within the body 104 when the removablemodule is disposed within the receptacles and attached to the body 104.Electrical signals are transmitted via the conductors in the cord 120 tothe computer 102 when any buttons of the first actuator module 114, thesecond actuator module 116 and the third actuator module 118 isactuated.

The first actuator module 114, the second actuator module 116 and thethird actuator module 118 are preferably constructed from buttons thatare spring-biased with respect to the body 104 as well known in the art.Alternatively, the first actuator module 114, the second actuator module116 and the third actuator module 118 are constructed using tactilesensors. The tactile sensors are either capacitive sensors or resistivesensors. The user operates the first actuator module 114, the secondactuator module 116 and the third actuator module 118 by using hisfingers to perform touch actuations, which are receivable by the tactilesensors and translated into electrical signals. The use of tactilesensors for the first actuator module 114, the second actuator module116 and the third actuator module 118 predictably extends the productlife of the input device 100 in the absence of typical wear-and-tearassociated with conventional buttons. Further, the user does not needsubstantial large downward finger movements to actuate buttons that areconstructed using the tactile sensors since slight touching of thebuttons is sufficient to “click” the buttons due to the sensitivity andresponsiveness of the tactile sensors.

Preferably, the body 104 of the input device 100 is formed of rigidplastic and has a flat base 202 that rests on a surface 204 of a desktopwhile being operated by the user. The surface 204 of the desktop issubstantially planar. Further, the upper surface 106 faces away from theflat base 202. In addition, two side surfaces, which are substantiallyperpendicular to the flat base 202, connect the upper surface 106 to theflat base 202 for forming a continuous surface and thereby forming thebody 104 of the input device 100. Additionally, the upper surface 106gradually tapers from a portion where the mid-palm area of the hand issupportable towards a portion and in a direction where the wrist of thehand is positionable when the hand of the user grips the input device100 during usage. Further, two flanges extend outwardly from the sidesof the flat base 202 to provide a larger surface area for stabilizingthe input device 100 when being operated by the user on the surface 204of the desktop. Additionally, the body 104 is comfortably shaped forgripping by the user who is operating the input device 100. The uppersurface 106 of the body 104 comprises a surface area substantially largeenough for supporting and resting the mid-palm area of the user's hand.In addition, the upper surface 106 also provides support to themetacarpal-phalangeal ridge of at least one of the index, middle andring fingers of the user. Further, the upper surface 106 is preferablyshaped as a continuous convex curve to conform to the natural posture ofa human's hand. Hence, irrespective of the size of the user's handoperating the input device 100, the design of the body 104 ensures thatthe user's forearm is in the neutral zone between pronation andsupination when operating the input device 100.

Further, the body 104 comprises two indentations, which areergonomically shaped, each being formed on and along the two sidesurfaces of the body 104. Each of the indentations is shaped to fit andaccommodate the thumb, ring finger and small finger when the user gripsand operates the input device 100. Preferably, the indentation foraccommodating the thumb is shaped substantially concave while theindentation for accommodating either the small finger or ring finger isshaped substantially convex. By resting the thumb and small finger onthe indentations during usage, the input device 100 resides between thethumb and small finger to provide a comfortable grip or “feel” for theuser.

During operation of the input device 100, the body 104 is moved relativeto the surface 204 and an optical sensor 302 disposed within the body104, on the flat base 202, senses the movement of the input device 100and generates positional signals. The positional signals are then sentto and processed by the computer 102 to thereby move the cursor 126 onthe visual display device 124.

The first actuator module 114 and the second actuator module 116 aredisposed and arranged on the upper surface 106 in a manner to facilitateeasy access thereto when the user is using the input device 100. Asshown in FIG. 1, the first actuator module 114 is disposed on the uppersurface 106 by the left edge of the primary key 108 and the secondactuator module 116 is similarly disposed by the left edge of scrollwheel 112. Preferably, both the first actuator module 114 and the secondactuator module 116 are arranged in a row-wise configuration. Humanfactor considerations were applied in the design of the configuration ofthe first actuator module 114 and the second actuator module 116 so asto prevent the user from engaging in awkward positioning or strainedmovement of the fingers, such as twisting or lateral movements of thefingers, when using the input device 100. Awkward positioning of thefingers when using any type of input devices may give rise tosignificant physical stresses causing discomfort to the user. Typically,the user uses the index or middle fingers for actuating any buttons ofthe first actuator module 114 and the second actuator module 116.Furthermore, the user also uses the index or middle fingers to actuatethe scroll wheel 112. Hence, by locating the first actuator module 114and the second actuator module 116 in the proximity of the scroll wheel112 enables the user quick access to the buttons thereof.

Separately, the third actuator module 118 mounted on one of the sidesurfaces of the body 104 conveniently enables the user to use the thumbto actuate any buttons of the third actuator module 118 when grippingthe input device 100. Access to buttons of the third actuator module 118occurs with comfortable side-to-side (lateroflexion) motion of thethumb. Depression of the buttons of the third actuator module 118 occurswith slight flexion of the thumb. Thus access and actuation of thebuttons of the third actuator module 118 by the user's thumb are withinthe expected range of thumb motion for a wide range of hand sizes.Moreover, the surface of the removable module in which the thirdactuator module 118 is formed on is shaped substantially concave, thusreciprocally conforming to the convex shape of the user's thumb andthereby ensuring that practically no extension of the thumb is requiredin moving from button to button of the third actuator module 118.

In an alternative embodiment as shown in FIGS. 5 to 8, there is yetanother ergonomic input device 500 configured for use with the computer102. The input device 500 is similarly configured as the input device100 of FIG. 1. The foregoing descriptions for the input device 100 ofFIG. 1 also apply to the input device 500 of FIG. 5 except for adistinct feature difference. The feature difference between the inputdevice 500 of FIG. 5 and the input device 100 of FIG. 1 is that thesecond actuator module 116 of the input device 500 of FIG. 5 is nowdisposed on the right edge of the secondary key 110 as clearly shown inFIG. 5. The user then preferably uses the middle finger to actuate thebuttons of the second actuator module 116 instead.

Yet in another alternative embodiment as shown in FIGS. 9 to 12, thereis also another ergonomic input device 900 configured for use with thecomputer 102. The input device 900 is similarly configured as the inputdevice 100 of FIG. 1. The foregoing descriptions for the input device100 of FIG. 1 also apply to the input device 900 of FIG. 9 except for adistinct feature difference. The feature difference is that the inputdevice 900 of FIG. 9 does not include the second actuator module 116 asclearly shown in FIG. 9.

Alternatively, other ergonomic shapes for the body 104 as well known inthe art are realizable and implementable for the input device 100 ofFIG. 1, the input device 500 of FIG. 5 and the input device 900 of FIG.9 without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. Inaddition, communication between the computer 102 with each of the inputdevice 100 of FIG. 1, the input device 500 of FIG. 5 and the inputdevice 900 of FIG. 9 is by one of wired communication and wirelesscommunication.

The following examples pertain to further embodiments.

Example 1 is an input device for communicating with a processor-baseddevice, the input device comprising: a circuitry; a first displacementtransducer coupled to the circuitry for transducing detecteddisplacement into displacement signals, the circuitry for communicatingthe displacement signals to the processor-based device for manipulatingan object on the processor-based device; a body for housing thecircuitry and the first displacement transducer, the body having a basefor being supported on a surface when in use and a support surfaceoutwardly opposing the base, at least a portion of the support surfacefor supporting the mid-palm of the user when in use, the body having adepressible key formed on the support surface; and a plurality ofactuators formed on the support surface of the body and positioned alongthe periphery of the depressible key, the plurality of actuators beingcoupled to the circuitry, wherein the plurality of actuators is operablefor generating actuating signals detectable by the circuitry, theactuating signals being communicable to the processor-based device bythe circuitry for operating a function on the processor-based device.

In example 2, the subject-matter of example 1 can optionally includethat the first displacement transducer is formed on the base of thebody.

In example 3, the subject-matter of example 1 can optionally include asecond displacement transducer formed on the support surface of the bodyand operable for generating actuating signals detectable by thecircuitry, the actuating signals being communicable to theprocessor-based device by the circuitry for operating a function on theprocessor-based device.

In example 4, the subject-matter of example 3 can optionally includethat the second displacement transducer is one of a scroll wheel, ascroll ball, a tactile sensor and an optical sensor.

In example 5, the subject-matter of example 1 can optionally includethat each of the plurality of actuators is a tactile sensor.

In example 6, the subject-matter of example 5 can optionally includethat the tactile sensor is one of a capacitive sensor and a resistivesensor.

In example 7, the subject-matter of example 1 can optionally includethat the plurality of actuators is arranged in a row and positionedadjacent the depressible key.

In example 8, the subject-matter of example 1 can optionally includethat each of the plurality of actuators comprises an actuation surfaceformed along the support surface, the actuation surface of each of theplurality of actuators being dimensionally smaller than the depressiblekey.

Example 9 is an input device for communicating with a processor-baseddevice, the input device comprising: a circuitry; a first displacementtransducer coupled to the circuitry for transducing detecteddisplacement into displacement signals, the circuitry for communicatingthe displacement signals to the processor-based device for manipulatingan object on the processor-based device; a body for housing thecircuitry and the first displacement transducer, the body having a basefor being supported on a surface when in use and a support surfaceoutwardly opposing the base, at least a portion of the support surfacefor supporting the mid-palm of the user when in use, the body having adepressible key formed on the support surface; a receptacle formed inthe support surface of the body and positioned along the periphery ofthe depressible key, the receptacle having electrical contacts formedtherein and coupled to the circuitry; and an actuator module comprisinga plurality of actuators, the actuator module being receivable into thereceptacle, wherein the plurality of actuators of the actuator module isoperable for generating actuating signals detectable by the circuitryvia the electrical contacts, the actuating signals being communicable tothe processor-based device by the circuitry for operating a function onthe processor-based device.

In example 10, the subject-matter of example 9 can optionally includethat the first displacement transducer is formed on the base of thebody.

In example 11, the subject-matter of example 9 can optionally include asecond displacement transducer formed on the support surface of the bodyand operable for generating actuating signals detectable by thecircuitry, the actuating signals being communicable to theprocessor-based device by the circuitry for operating a function on theprocessor-based device.

In example 12, the subject-matter of example 11 can optionally includethat the second displacement transducer is one of a scroll wheel, ascroll ball, a tactile sensor and an optical sensor.

In example 13, the subject-matter of example 9 can optionally includethat each of the plurality of actuators of the actuator module is atactile sensor.

In example 14, the subject-matter of example 9 can optionally includethat the tactile sensor is one of a capacitive sensor and a resistivesensor.

In example 15, the subject-matter of example 9 can optionally includethat the plurality of actuators of the actuator module is arranged in arow and positioned adjacent the depressible key.

In example 16, the subject-matter of example 9 can optionally includethat each of the plurality of actuators of the actuator module comprisesan actuation surface formed along the support surface, the actuationsurface of each of the plurality of actuators being dimensionallysmaller than the depressible key.

Example 17 is an input device for communicating with a processor-baseddevice, the input device comprising: a circuitry; a first displacementtransducer coupled to the circuitry for transducing detecteddisplacement into displacement signals, the circuitry for communicatingthe displacement signals to the processor-based device for manipulatingan object on the processor-based device; a body for housing thecircuitry and the first displacement transducer, the body having a basefor being supported on a surface when in use and a support surfaceoutwardly opposing the base, at least a portion of the support surfacefor supporting the mid-palm of the user when in use; and a receptacleformed in the support surface of the body, the receptacle havingelectrical contacts formed therein and coupled to the circuitry, thereceptacle for receiving an actuator module thereinto, the actuatormodule comprising at least one actuator, wherein when the actuatormodule is received in the receptacle, the at least one actuator of theactuator module is operable for generating actuating signals detectableby the circuitry via the electrical contacts, the actuating signalsbeing communicable to the processor-based device by the circuitry foroperating a function on the processor-based device.

In example 18, the subject-matter of example 17 can optionally include adepressible key mounted on the support surface of the body, thedepressible key being electrically coupled to the circuitry, thedepressible key being operable for generating actuating signalsdetectable by the circuitry, the actuating signals being communicable tothe processor-based device by the circuitry for operating a function onthe processor-based device.

In example 19, the subject-matter of example 17 can optionally includethat the first displacement transducer is formed on the base of thebody.

In example 20, the subject-matter of example 17 can optionally include asecond displacement transducer formed on the support surface of the bodyand operable for generating actuating signals detectable by thecircuitry, the actuating signals being communicable to theprocessor-based device by the circuitry for operating a function on theprocessor-based device.

In example 21, the subject-matter of example 20 can optionally includethat the second displacement transducer is one of a scroll wheel, ascroll ball, a tactile sensor and an optical sensor.

In example 22, the subject-matter of example 17 can optionally includethat the at least one actuator of the actuator module is a tactilesensor.

In example 23, the subject-matter of example 22 can optionally includethat the tactile sensor is one of a capacitive sensor and a resistivesensor.

In example 24, the subject-matter of example 18 can optionally includethat the at least one actuator of the actuator module comprises anactuation surface formed along the support surface, the actuationsurface of the at least one actuator being dimensionally smaller thanthe depressible key.

In example 25, the subject-matter of example 18 can optionally includethat the receptacle is positioned along the periphery of the depressiblekey.

Example 26 is an input device for communicating with a processor-baseddevice, the input device comprising: a circuitry; a body for housing thecircuitry, the body having a base for being supported on a surface whenin use and a support surface outwardly opposing the base, at least aportion of the support surface for supporting the mid-palm of the userwhen in use; and a receptacle formed in the support surface of the body,the receptacle having electrical contacts formed therein and coupled tothe circuitry, the receptacle for receiving an actuator modulethereinto, the actuator module comprising at least one actuator, whereinwhen the actuator module is received in the receptacle, the at least oneactuator of the actuator module is operable for generating actuatingsignals detectable by the circuitry via the electrical contacts, theactuating signals being communicable to the processor-based device bythe circuitry for operating a function on the processor-based device.

In example 27, the subject-matter of example 26 can optionally include adepressible key mounted on the support surface of the body, thedepressible key being electrically coupled to the circuitry, thedepressible key being operable for generating actuating signalsdetectable by the circuitry, the actuating signals being communicable tothe processor-based device by the circuitry for operating a function onthe processor-based device.

In example 28, the subject-matter of example 26 can optionally include adisplacement transducer formed on the body to protrude from the supportsurface of the body and operable for generating actuating signalsdetectable by the circuitry, the actuating signals being communicable tothe processor-based device by the circuitry for operating a function onthe processor-based device.

In example 29, the subject-matter of example 28 can optionally includethat the displacement transducer is one of a scroll wheel, a scrollball, a tactile sensor and an optical sensor.

In example 30, the subject-matter of example 26 can optionally includethat the at least one actuator of the actuator module is a tactilesensor.

In example 31, the subject-matter of example 30 can optionally includethat the tactile sensor is one of a capacitive sensor and a resistivesensor.

In example 32, the subject-matter of example 27 can optionally includethat the at least one actuator of the actuator module comprises anactuation surface formed along the support surface, the actuationsurface of the at least one actuator being dimensionally smaller thanthe depressible key.

In example 33, the subject-matter of example 27 can optionally includethat the receptacle is positioned along the periphery of the depressiblekey.

In the foregoing manner, an ergonomic input device withmulti-programmable buttons is described according to embodiments of theinvention for addressing at least one of the foregoing disadvantages.Although a few embodiments of the invention are disclosed, it will beapparent to one skilled in the art in view of this disclosure thatnumerous changes and/or modification can be made without departing fromthe spirit and scope of the invention.

1. An input device for communicating with a processor-based device, theinput device comprising: a circuitry; a first displacement transducercoupled to the circuitry for transducing detected displacement intodisplacement signals, the circuitry for communicating the displacementsignals to the processor-based device for manipulating an object on theprocessor-based device; a body for housing the circuitry and the firstdisplacement transducer, the body having a base for being supported on asurface when in use and a support surface outwardly opposing the base,at least a portion of the support surface for supporting the mid-palm ofthe user when in use, the body having a depressible key formed on thesupport surface; and an actuator module comprising a plurality ofactuators formed on the support surface of the body and positioned alongthe periphery of the depressible key, the plurality of actuators beingcoupled to the circuitry, wherein the plurality of actuators isconfigured to generate actuating signals communicable to theprocessor-based device by the circuitry for operating a shortcutfunction on the processor-based device; the shortcut functioncorresponding to a unique code stored on the processor-based device. 2.The input device as in claim 1, wherein the first displacementtransducer is formed on the base of the body.
 3. The input device as inclaim 1, further comprising: a second displacement transducer formed onthe support surface of the body and operable for generating actuatingsignals detectable by the circuitry, the actuating signals beingcommunicable to the processor-based device by the circuitry foroperating a function on the processor-based device.
 4. The input deviceas in claim 3, wherein the second displacement transducer is one of ascroll wheel, a scroll ball, a tactile sensor and an optical sensor. 5.The input device as in claim 1, wherein each of the plurality ofactuators is a tactile sensor.
 6. The input device as in claim 5,wherein the tactile sensor is one of a capacitive sensor and a resistivesensor.
 7. The input device as in claim 1, wherein the plurality ofactuators is arranged in a row and positioned adjacent the depressiblekey.
 8. The input device as in claim 1, wherein each of the plurality ofactuators comprises an actuation surface formed along the supportsurface, the actuation surface of each of the plurality of actuatorsbeing dimensionally smaller than the depressible key.
 9. The inputdevice of claim 1, wherein the actuator module is provided at a sidesurface of the input device.
 10. The input device of claim 1, whereinthe actuator module is replaceable.
 11. The input device of claim 1,wherein the actuator module is removable.
 12. The input device of claim1, further comprising: a receptacle formed in the support surface of thebody, the receptacle having electrical contacts formed therein andcoupled to the circuitry, the receptacle for receiving the actuatormodule thereinto.
 13. The input device as in claim 12, furthercomprising: a depressible key mounted on the support surface of thebody, the depressible key being electrically coupled to the circuitry,the depressible key being operable for generating actuating signalsdetectable by the circuitry, the actuating signals being communicable tothe processor-based device by the circuitry for operating a function onthe processor-based device.
 14. The input device as in claim 12, whereinthe first displacement transducer is formed on the base of the body. 15.The input device as in claim 12, further comprising: a seconddisplacement transducer formed on the support surface of the body andoperable for generating actuating signals detectable by the circuitry,the actuating signals being communicable to the processor-based deviceby the circuitry for operating a function on the processor-based device.16. The input device as in claim 13, wherein the at least one actuatorof the actuator module comprises an actuation surface formed along thesupport surface, the actuation surface of the at least one actuatorbeing dimensionally smaller than the depressible key.
 17. The inputdevice as in claim 13, wherein the receptacle is positioned along theperiphery of the depressible key.
 18. The input device of claim 1,further comprising: a receptacle formed in the support surface of thebody, the receptacle having electrical contacts formed therein andcoupled to the circuitry, the receptacle for receiving the actuatormodule thereinto, wherein when the actuator module is received in thereceptacle, the at least one actuator of the actuator module is operablefor generating actuating signals detectable by the circuitry via theelectrical contacts, the actuating signals being communicable to theprocessor-based device by the circuitry for operating a function on theprocessor-based device.
 19. The input device as in claim 18, furthercomprising: a depressible key mounted on the support surface of thebody, the depressible key being electrically coupled to the circuitry,the depressible key being operable for generating actuating signalsdetectable by the circuitry, the actuating signals being communicable tothe processor-based device by the circuitry for operating a function onthe processor-based device.
 20. A method comprising: assigning shortcutfunctions to an actuating module of an input device for communicatingwith a processor-based device; and storing a unique code correspondingto the short cut function on the processor-based device.